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Lava Stone Facade Melding Geothermal Elements Within a Visitor Center Experience

Author:
Shan Shao
Lava Stone Facade Melding Geothermal Elements Within a Visitor Center Experience

Project in-detail

Utilizing locally sourced lava stone and large glass panels, the design seamlessly integrates with the breathtaking landscape of Dimmuborgir while serving as a vital hub for education and exploration of Iceland's geological wonders.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates local lava stone to seamlessly blend with the surrounding geological landscape.
02
Features large glass panels designed to maximize natural light and provide panoramic views of Dimmuborgir.
03
Utilizes a geothermal heating system to enhance energy efficiency while minimizing environmental impact.
04
Includes interactive educational displays that engage visitors with the region's unique geological history.
05
Highlights a curved pathway that connects the building with hiking trails, promoting outdoor exploration.
The Dimmuborgir Visitor Center is an architectural project located within the captivating Dimmuborgir Lava Fields in Iceland. This facility is designed to serve as a hub for visitors eager to explore the unique geological and historical dimensions of the area. The project embodies a commitment to sustainability and harmonizes with the surrounding landscape, reflecting both the natural beauty and the geological history of the location.

The center represents a thoughtful integration of architecture and environment, fostering a connection between people and nature. Its primary function is to provide educational resources, along with amenities that enhance the visitor experience. The various layers of the facility include exhibition halls for geological displays, a café that offers scenic views, and dedicated spaces for information services and staff. Each area is meticulously arranged to promote interaction among visitors while facilitating a smooth transition from the indoors to the outdoors.

Architecturally, the Dimmuborgir Visitor Center features a design that resonates with the area's dramatic geological formations. The choice of materials plays a critical role in this dialogue between the structure and its environment. Predominantly using black lava stone, the building's facade echoes the rugged characteristics of the surrounding landscape. Glass elements are strategically incorporated to frame stunning views of the nearby lava formations and Lake Myvatn, inviting natural light into the interior spaces and blurring the lines between inside and outside.

The spatial organization of the visitor center is designed to encourage exploration and discovery. Visitors are welcomed into a central hall, which serves as an orientation point that leads to other functional areas of the building. The circulation path is designed to be intuitive, guiding users through various exhibits, viewing platforms, and outdoor access points. This design choice enhances the overall experience by allowing visitors to traverse seamlessly from one area to another, promoting engagement with both the center and the natural environment.

One unique aspect of the Dimmuborgir Visitor Center is how it emphasizes sustainability through its careful selection of local materials. The use of locally sourced black lava stone not only minimizes the environmental impact associated with material transportation but also reinforces a sense of place that resonates with the local geology. This approach highlights an architectural philosophy that prioritizes ecological responsibility while offering an authentic experience for visitors.

Moreover, the building's design encompasses panoramic views that invite visitors to connect with the stunning landscape. These carefully curated sightlines provide opportunities for contemplation and appreciation of the natural forces that have shaped the area over millennia. The architectural decisions made throughout the project underscore a commitment to enhancing the visitor experience while promoting respect for the natural environment.

The Dimmuborgir Visitor Center is a commendable example of how architecture can serve practical functions while simultaneously engaging with its context. The integration of natural materials, the emphasis on sustainability, and the careful planning of spaces highlight the ways in which the design fosters a connection with the striking landscape of Dimmuborgir. For those interested in exploring the project's various dimensions further, it is encouraged to review the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs that contribute to this thoughtful project. Engaging with these materials will provide deeper insights into the design ideas that underpin the Dimmuborgir Visitor Center and its role in enriching the visitor experience within this remarkable geological setting.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

Microhome

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € PRIZE FUND / KINGPSAN EDITION #10 IDEAS COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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